100 years ago, March 18, 1925, the massive and deadly Tri-State Tornado swept through Southeastern Missouri, Southern Illinois, and into Southwestern Indiana. The deadliest tornado in United States history, it killed 695 people during its 3.5 hours on the ground.
The storm began its fatal rampage near Ellington, Missouri, in a period before technology existed to detect tornadoes or to share warnings of impending weather threats. After killing eight in Missouri, the storm crossed the Mississippi River and blasted its way through the width of Southern Illinois causing extensive loss of life and destruction. Hundreds were killed, including over 230 in Murphysboro and nearly 150 in West Frankfort, and many were injured. Fatalities included pupils attending school with a loss of 33 in De Soto alone. The community of Gorham was 100% destroyed and Parrish was nearly a total loss.
As the Tri-State Tornado continued its rampage into Indiana it obliterated the town of Griffin killing over 50, swept away farms and homes around Owensville, and wreaked havoc on the south side of Princeton before dissipating southwest of Petersburg.
In the aftermath of the tornado the Tri-State showed incredible strength and compassion. Survivors, victims’ families and affected communities demonstrated resilience as they tried to endure, grieve, and rebuild amid an untenable situation. Rescue workers and neighboring communities generously provided food, temporary housing, and medicine to aid in the recovery.
Through imagery and words, this exhibition provides an overview of this tragic event and shares information about the science of tornadoes and how to be prepared for these destructive forces of nature.
